1:52nd Infantry

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Branch

U.S. Army

Members

About 1:52nd Infantry

The 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry Regiment (1-52 IN) traces its lineage back to its initial constitution in 1917 and has served with distinction in multiple conflicts. The unit saw action in World War II as part of the 4th Infantry Division, participating in campaigns across Europe, including the Normandy invasion and the liberation of France. During the Vietnam War, the battalion provided critical security and combat operations, adapting to changing warfare environments. In more recent years, 1-52 IN has served as a part of U.S. Army Alaska, focusing on infantry and reconnaissance missions in challenging Arctic conditions.

Unit Members

Benito Espinoza

U.S. Army

1:52nd InfantryView Profile

Mitchell Bartholomew

U.S. Army

1:52nd InfantryView Profile

Photos

U.S. Army • 1974

U.S. Army • 1976

About 1:52nd Infantry

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry Regiment (1/52nd Infantry) was originally constituted in 1917, but saw notable service in World War II as part of the 4th Infantry Division, participating in campaigns across Europe. • D-Day Landings: Elements of the 52nd Infantry participated in the Normandy Invasion on D-Day, June 6, 1944, helping secure the beachhead and advance into France. • Vietnam War Service: The 1/52nd Infantry served in Vietnam, notably as part of the Americal Division (23rd Infantry Division), where it conducted combat operations in the I Corps Tactical Zone. • Nickname "Ready Rifles": The battalion has long been known by the nickname "Ready Rifles," highlighting its reputation for preparedness and rapid response. • Decorations: The 1/52nd Infantry has been awarded several unit citations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and the Valorous Unit Award for extraordinary heroism in action. • Alaska Assignment: The battalion has been assigned to Fort Wainwright, Alaska, supporting Arctic operations and training, emphasizing its adaptability to extreme environments. • Stryker Brigade Combat Team: In the 21st century, the 1/52nd Infantry has been a part of the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, becoming one of the Army's first Stryker-equipped units. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The unit deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, conducting security, stability, and combat operations. • Motto "Fortis et Certus": The battalion's motto, "Fortis et Certus" ("Brave and Sure"), reflects its legacy of courage and dependability. • Distinctive Insignia: The unit's distinctive insignia features a bayonet and a blue field, symbolizing the infantry's combat role and heritage.